Systems and methods for spasticity treatment using spinal nerve magnetic stimulation

ABSTRACT

Described are methods, devices, and systems for a novel, easy to use treatment for spasticity that does not involve medication. Methods and devices herein use low-frequency repetitive magnetic fields to enhance communication in the spinal nerve, thereby allowing improved relaxation, control, and coordination in a muscle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Muscle spasticity is a serious and sometimes debilitating condition. Itis generally considered to result from a loss of inhibition of motorneurons, causing excessive muscle contraction or hyperreflexia. Thealtered skeletal muscle performance results in often severecontractions, twitching, and involuntary or jerky movements. Inaddition, those afflicted with the disorder may have joint stiffness,unusual posture, and exaggerated reflexes. Spasticity can cause pain,loss of sleep, joint deformity, macerated skin, loss of coordination,fatigue, and an inability to perform many basic daily activities.

Spastic cerebral palsy is by far the most common form of cerebral palsy(CP), occurring in more than 70% of all cases, affecting approximately 3children out of every 1,000 people. Spasticity is also a symptom in 78%of multiple sclerosis patients, 35% of those with stroke, 50% ofpatients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), and 40% of those with spinalcord injury (SCI).

In general, spasticity develops when an imbalance occurs in theexcitatory and inhibitory input to alpha motor neurons in the spinalcord, leading to hyper-excitability of the affected muscle or muscles.Possible mechanisms of action include lesions of the upper motor neuron,such as in CP, stroke, TBI, or SCI, where disruption occurs not only inthe pyramidal tract, but also in the corticospinal tract involved involuntary movement. Removal of inhibition on segmental polysynapticpathways leads to a rise of the excitatory state due to cumulativeexcitation. In the cerebral model, enhanced excitability of monosynapticpathways can cause a buildup of reflex activity.

Spasticity is often localized to a particular muscle or muscles in thebody. Specific locations in the body communicate with the brain throughat least one spinal nerve. 31 pairs of spinal nerves exist in the body,with each one connecting to the spine via its nerve root. Mapping hasbeen performed and published, which allows one to determine the spinalnerve or nerves that communicate with a specific region of the body. Oneexample would be cervical spinal nerves C5 and C6, which pass signalsbetween the deltoid muscle of the shoulder and the brain.

Treatment of spasticity generally includes physical therapy oroccupational therapy targeted at reducing muscle tone, improving rangeof motion, mobility, comfort, and strength of moveable parts of thebody. Botulinum toxin (BTX) is often used to interrupt neuronalsignaling by destroying nerve tissue. A variety of medications have beenused to treat the symptoms of spasticity. For example, dantrolenereduces the release of calcium into the sarcoplasmic reticulum ofmuscles, which slows muscle fibers. Baclofen binds to GABA_(B) receptorsin the spinal cord, decreasing stretch reflexes. Medications ofteninclude serious side effects, including dizziness, weakness, malaise,fatigue, and diarrhea. Confusion and cognition problems are also commonwith certain medications. For some patients, the only treatmentavailable is surgical denervation of muscles and tendons. It is apparentthat a non-invasive, drug-free method for providing treatment ofspasticity is desirable.

SUMMARY

Described herein are methods and systems for novel, effective, treatmentfor spasticity. Methods and devices described herein can be used withoutmedication. Methods and devices described herein desensitize one or morespinal nerves that connect with a treatment area in the body, therebyproviding muscle relaxation.

Repetitive magnetic stimulation (rMS) uses a magnetic field generatorthat is placed near a target region and generates a series of magneticfield pulses roughly the strength of an MRI scan. One common use of rMSis transcranial stimulation to reduce the symptoms of depression,referred to as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS).

In one aspect, the subject invention provides methods of treatingspasticity in asubject, comprising: (a) determining a treatment locationin the body of the subject that is or has been a source of spasticityfor the subject; (b) determining a target location on or near at leastone spinal nerve that connects the treatment location to the spineipsilateral to the treatment location; and (c) administering repetitivemagnetic field pulses to the target location.

Preferably the magnetic pulses are generated using an electromagnet, butother methods may also be used. The frequency (or frequencies) ofmagnetic pulses is chosen such that communication in the spinal nerve inthe target location is enhanced.

In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magneticpulse frequency is fixed at or near a target frequency. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulsefrequency hops periodically about an average target frequency. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulsefrequency hops periodically to random values within a range about anaverage target frequency. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the magnetic pulse frequency hops periodically in aspecific pattern about an average target frequency. In some embodimentsof at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulse frequencyhops periodically between two values about an average target frequency.In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magneticpulse target frequency is from about 1 Hz to about 10 Hz. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulsetarget frequency is from about 10 Hz to about 30 Hz.

Pulses may be part of a pulse train, with a specific overall duty cyclewherein the pulse train is active for a certain period of time, theninactive, and restarts every duty cycle period for the treatmentduration. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above,the repetitive magnetic pulses are part of a pulse train with a trainduration that is about 4 seconds to about 30 seconds and is alternatelyactive and inactive as part of a duty cycle with a period of about 30seconds to about 80 seconds. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the pulse train duration is about 30 seconds to about200 seconds and the duty cycle period is about 40 seconds to about 300seconds.

Treatment may be administered for a length of time necessary to achieveefficacy for the therapy. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the treatment is administered for a treatment durationthat is about 0 minutes to about 10 minutes. In some embodiments of atleast one aspect described above, the treatment is administered for atreatment duration that is about 10 minutes to about 30 minutes.

The target location is chosen to be at least one portion of the spinalnerve close to the nerve root ipsilateral to the treatment location. Insome embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the targetlocation is from about ½ inch to about 2 inches from the spine. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the target locationis from about 2 inches to about 4 inches from the spine.

The magnetic field pulse strength should be set to a value that provideseffective therapy. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, the strength of the magnetic field pulses is from about 10 Gaussto about 4 Tesla. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, the strength of the magnetic field pulses is adjusted based onthe tolerance of the subject. The tolerance of the subject is based onthe threshold above which the magnetic pulses cause unacceptablediscomfort in the target location. In some embodiments of at least oneaspect described above, the method described herein may be used to treatspasticity caused by at least one of multiple sclerosis, stroke,traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury,strenuous exercise, muscle recovery, a sports injury, a traumaticinjury, post-operative side effect, sympathetic nervous system responseto an event, or a neuromuscular injury.

In addition to transmitting magnetic pulses to a target location in thespinal nerve of the subject, improved spasticity reduction may beachieved by administering transcranial magnetic field pulses at afrequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of thebiological metric. This stimulation allows for enhanced communication inthe pyramidal fibers, allowing improved transmission of inhibitorysignals to the motor neurons. In addition, enhanced communication allowssensory neurons to provide improved feedback from the muscle, allowingbetter control and coordination of the muscle. In some embodiments of atleast one aspect described above, the method further comprisesadministering repetitive transcranial magnetic field pulses at afrequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of thebiological metric. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, repetitive magnetic pulses are administered transcranially and tothe target location concurrently. In some embodiments of at least oneaspect described above, repetitive magnetic pulses are administeredtranscranially and to the target location non-concurrently.

In another aspect of the present invention, a device to treat spasticityin a subject is provided comprising: (a) a magnetic field generator; (b)a power source configured to energize the magnetic field generator inorder to generate a repetitive pulsed magnetic field outside a subject(or a connector for connecting to a power source); and (c) an adjustablemount that is configured to hold the magnetic field generator in place;wherein the electrical magnetic field generator is configured totransmit repetitive magnetic field pulses such that the magnetic fieldinduces an electric current or voltage potential in a target location onor near the spinal nerve that connects a spasticity treatment locationto the spine.

In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, theadjustable mount is configured to position the magnetic field generatorabove the target location, outside but close to the skin of the subject.In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the targetlocation is at a distance of about ½ inch to about 4 inches from thespine. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, themount is attached to the body so that the magnetic field generator maybe worn by the subject. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the mount is held stationary so that the subjectpositions his/her body near the mount in order to bring the targetlocation close to the magnetic field generator.

It is possible to incorporate the mount as part of a treatment chair,which allows the person to sit in the chair and adjust his/her body soas to place the magnetic field generator near the target area.Incorporating the mount into a chair makes positioning easier, since theperson's body may naturally rest in the correct position. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the mount is part ofa treatment chair. The mount does not need to be in a fixed location onthe chair. The target location may change based on the treatmentlocation. In addition, the size of people varies so that the treatmentlocation may naturally rest against a different part of the treatmentchair. Therefore, it may be advantageous to allow the mount position tobe adjustable. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, the mount position is adjustable to allow a person to move themagnetic field generator near the target location.

Instead of repositioning the magnetic field generator depending ontarget location and the size of the person, it may be advantageous toinclude multiple magnetic field generators in the treatment chair,whereby a particular magnetic field generator or magnetic fieldgenerators may be selected to transmit magnetic field pulses, dependingon which magnetic field generator is closest to the target location ofthe person.

The chair embodiment described herein is most relevant for use with aperson, other embodiments appropriate for delivering treatment tosubjects other than people can be readily envisioned by the skilledartisan having the benefit of the disclosure provided herein.

In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the devicefurther comprises a second magnetic field generator as part of thetreatment chair, whereby at least one of the magnetic field generatorsmay be selected using a switch to transmit repetitive magneticstimulation to one or more target locations. In some embodiments of atleast one aspect described above, the first magnetic field generator andthe second magnetic field generator transmit repetitive magneticstimulation to target locations concurrently. In some embodiments of atleast one aspect described above, the first magnetic field generator andthe second magnetic field generator transmit repetitive magneticstimulation to target locations non-concurrently.

In addition to transmitting magnetic pulses to a target location in thespinal nerve of the subject, improved spasticity reduction may beachieved by administering transcranial magnetic field pulses at afrequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of thebiological metric. This stimulation allows for treatment of anxietyassociated with the spasticity. By reducing the subject's anxiety,additional relaxation of the muscle is allowed. In some embodiments ofat least one aspect described above, the device further comprises asecond magnetic field generator and mount in order to transmitrepetitive transcranial magnetic field pulses at a frequency of abiological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the biologicalmetric. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, thefirst and second magnetic field generators transmit repetitive magneticstimulation transcranially and to the target location concurrently. Insome embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the first andsecond magnetic field generators transmit repetitive magneticstimulation transcranially and to the target location non-concurrently.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A better understanding of the features and advantages of the systems andmethods provided will be obtained by reference to the following detaileddescription that sets forth illustrative embodiments and theaccompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary device in which the magnetic field generatoris a coil that is placed near the root of the spinal nerve connectingthe spine to a treatment location in a muscle in the thigh of a subject.

FIG. 2 shows an example target location near the nerve root of a spinalnerve connecting the spine to a treatment location in a muscle of asubject.

FIG. 3 shows an example method flowchart in which the source ofspasticity is localized and treatment is performed at a target location.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary device in which the magnetic field generatoris a coil that is held near the target location using a strap that goesaround the waist or torso of the person.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary device in which the magnetic field generatoris a coil that is contained in a vest in a location that is near thetarget location.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary device in which an rTMS coil is placed nearthe head and a second coil is placed near a target location.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary device in which two coils are placed near theroots of two separate spinal nerves, allowing magnetic pulses to beapplied to two separate target locations in order to affect two separatetreatment locations.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary device in which a series of figure-8 coils areincorporated into the back of a treatment chair. Through the use of aswitch, at least one of the coils may be selected to target one or morespinal nerves.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While certain embodiments have been provided and described herein, itwill be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that suchembodiments are provided by way of example only. It should be understoodthat various alternatives to the embodiments described herein may beemployed, and are part of the invention described herein.

Described herein are methods and systems for novel, effective, treatmentof spasticity. In some embodiments, described are methods and systemsthat transmit repetitive Magnetic Stimulation (rMS) to a target locationthat includes a portion of at least one spinal nerve, and is locatednear the root of the spinal nerve where it connects to the spine. Thespinal nerve connects the spine with at least one treatment location inthe body of the subject. When repetitive magnetic pulses areadministered to a target location at a low pulse frequency (less thanabout 20 Hz), the spinal nerve lying inside or near the target locationbecomes enhanced, which allows for improvement of the spinal nervefunction, thereby allowing the inhibitory nerve pulses to reach thetreatment location, causing the muscle to relax, and making movementeasier for the subject. In addition, the improved communication in thespinal nerve allows better feedback from the treatment area, allowingimproved coordination and control of the muscle. When stimulation iscombined with rTMS directed at the cortex with a pulse frequency equalto a harmonic of a biological metric, such as heart rate, that falls inan EEG band of the subject, such as the alpha band, the two treatmentstogether allow for a significant relaxation and control of the person'smuscle, thereby reducing the symptoms of spasticity.

The term “treatment location”, when referring to the rMS treatment, is alocation that is a region of the body that is a source of spasticity forthe subject.

The term “target location”, when referring to the rMS treatment, is alocation near the root of a spinal nerve that connects to the treatmentlocation. The target location is the region of the body where the rMSmagnetic pulses are directed.

The term “target frequency”, when referring to the rMS treatment, is thefrequency of the magnetic pulses. When magnetic pulses are transmittedat a fixed frequency, the target frequency refers to this fixed value.When magnetic pulses are transmitted at a frequency that varies overtime, either randomly or with a fixed pattern, the target frequencyrefers to the average of the magnetic pulse frequencies.

The term “pulse train”, when referring to the rMS treatment, is a seriesof magnetic pulses.

The term “duty cycle”, when referring to the rMS treatment, is aperiodic time interval when the pulse train is active during a portionof the time interval, where magnetic pulses are generated, and inactiveduring the remaining portion of the time interval, where magnetic pulsesare not generated.

The term “treatment duration”, when referring to the rMS treatment, isthe total session time. The treatment duration is composed of a seriesof duty cycles.

The term “magnetic field generator,” when referring to the rMS device,is the portion of the device that generates a pulsed magnetic field.Examples of a magnetic field generator include a coil, a movingpermanent magnet, or combination thereof. Example coils include acircular coil, a figure-8 coil, and an H-coil. Example movement of apermanent magnet include rotational motion, linear motion, and swingmotion. Preferably, the magnetic field generator is an electromagnet,but other methods may also be used to generate a magnetic field.

The term “subject” refers to an animal that can be afflicted withspasticity. The animal is preferably a vertebrate. The animal may be amammal, including humans, dogs, cats, and horses.

Described herein are methods and devices that provide treatment andinvolve no medication, although medication may be administered inconjunction with the treatment without necessarily altering the effectsof the treatment.

Motor neurons are the primary mechanism for muscle contraction. Uppermotor neurons are cortico-spinal interneurons that arise from the motorcortex and descend to the spinal cord. Lower motor neurons proceed fromthe spinal cord through the spinal nerve and innervate the muscle. Motorneurons, upon adequate stimulation, release neurotransmitters thattrigger a response in a muscle fiber, which leads to muscle contraction.The response of a muscle fiber to a neurotransmitter can only beexcitatory, or contractile. Muscle relaxation and inhibition of musclecontraction are achieved by inhibition of the motor neuron itself.

Spasticity may be caused by a lesion along the upper motor neuronpathway, which causes the removal of inhibitory influences exerted bythe cortex on the postural centers of the vestibular nuclei andreticular formation. This can result following damage to thecorticospinal tract.

When a signal is transmitted through the spinal nerve, a minimum transittime is generally required, which is about 50 milliseconds. This meansthat the highest frequency at which the nerve can fire is about 20 Hz(20 times per second). Magnetic pulses administered to a target locationon the spinal nerve cause a voltage potential in the nerve fibers, andif the magnetic pulses have a low frequency (less than 20 Hz), thencommunication in the spinal nerve becomes enhanced Enhanced efferentcommunication improves the transmission of inhibitory signals to themotor neurons, which allows for a relaxation of the muscle fiber. Inaddition, enhanced afferent communication improves the transmission viasensory neurons from the muscle to the spinal cord, allowing betterfeedback, which improves muscle control and coordination.

The target location may be anywhere along the spinal nerve. However, ifmagnetic pulses are delivered too close to the spine, other nerves maybe affected, causing side effects. The spinal nerve is generally toodeep along the mid region for magnetic pulses to have the desiredeffect. Magnetic pulses generated near the spinal nerve at the treatmentlocation is another potential location where magnetic pulses could havethe desired effect.

In one aspect, the subject invention provides methods of treatingspasticity in a subject, comprising: (a) determining a treatmentlocation in the body of the subject that is or has been a source ofspasticity for the person; and (b) determining a target location on ornear at least one spinal nerve that connects the treatment location tothe spine ipsilateral to the treatment location; and (c) administeringrepetitive magnetic field pulses to the target location.

The frequency or frequencies of magnetic pulses is chosen such thatcommunication in the spinal nerve in the target location is enhanced. Insome embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magneticpulse frequency is fixed at or near a target frequency. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulsefrequency hops periodically about an average target frequency. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulsefrequency hops periodically to random values within a range about anaverage target frequency. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the magnetic pulse frequency hops periodically in aspecific pattern about an average target frequency. In some embodimentsof at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulse frequencyhops periodically between two values about an average target frequency.In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magneticpulse target frequency is from about 1 Hz to about 10 Hz. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the magnetic pulsetarget frequency is from about 10 Hz to about 30 Hz.

Pulses may be part of a pulse train, with a specific overall duty cyclewherein the pulse train is active for a certain period of time, theninactive, and restarts every duty cycle period for the treatmentduration. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above,the repetitive magnetic pulses are part of a pulse train with a trainduration that is about 4 seconds to about 30 seconds and is alternatelyactive and inactive as part of a duty cycle with a period of about 30seconds to about 80 seconds. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the pulse train duration is about 30 seconds to about200 seconds and the duty cycle period is about 40 seconds to about 300seconds.

Treatment duration may be administered for a length of time necessary toachieve efficacy for the therapy. In some embodiments of at least oneaspect described above, the treatment is administered for a treatmentduration that is about 0 minutes to about 10 minutes. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the treatment isadministered for a treatment duration that is about 10 minutes to about30 minutes.

The target location is chosen to be at least one portion of the spinalnerve close to the nerve root ipsilateral to the treatment location. Insome embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the targetlocation is from about ½ inch to about 2 inches from the spine. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the target locationis from about 2 inches to about 4 inches from the spine.

The magnetic field pulse strength may be set to the value that provideseffective therapy. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, the strength of the magnetic field pulses is from about 10 Gaussto about 4 Tesla. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, the strength of the magnetic field pulses is adjusted based onthe tolerance of the subject. The tolerance of the subject is based onthe threshold above which the magnetic pulses cause unacceptablediscomfort in the target location. In some embodiments of at least oneaspect described above, the method described herein may be used to treatspasticity caused by at least one of multiple sclerosis, stroke,traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, strenuousexercise, muscle recovery, a sports injury, a traumatic injury,post-operative side effect, sympathetic nervous system response to anevent, or a neuromuscular injury. One example of a post-operative sideeffect is constriction of the bowels, causing constipation. One exampleof a sympathetic nervous system response to an event is constriction ofthe urethra, causing urine retention.

In addition to transmitting magnetic pulses to a target location in thespinal nerve of the subject, improved spasticity reduction may beachieved by administering transcranial magnetic field pulses at afrequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of thebiological metric. This stimulation allows for enhanced communication inthe pyramidal fibers, allowing improved transmission of inhibitorysignals to the motor neurons. In addition, enhanced communication allowssensory neurons to provide improved feedback from the muscle, allowingbetter control and coordination of the muscle. In some embodiments of atleast one aspect described above, the method further comprisesadministering repetitive transcranial magnetic field pulses at afrequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of thebiological metric. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, repetitive magnetic pulses are administered transcranially and tothe target location concurrently. In some embodiments of at least oneaspect described above, repetitive magnetic pulses are administeredtranscranially and to the target location non-concurrently.

In another aspect of the present invention, a device to treat spasticityin a subject is provided comprising:

-   -   a. A magnetic field generator;    -   b. a power source configured to energize the magnetic field        generator in order to generate a repetitive pulsed magnetic        field outside a subject, or a connector for connecting to a        power source; and    -   c. an adjustable mount that is configured to hold the magnetic        field generator in place;        wherein the magnetic field generator is configured to transmit        repetitive magnetic field pulses such that the magnetic field        induces an electric current or voltage potential in a target        location on or near the spinal nerve that connects a spasticity        treatment location to the spine.

In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, theadjustable mount is configured to position the magnetic field generatorabove the target location, outside but close to the skin of the subject.In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the targetlocation is at a distance of about ½ inch to about 4 inches from thespine. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, themount is attached to the body so that the magnetic field generator maybe worn by the subject. In some embodiments of at least one aspectdescribed above, the mount is held stationary so that the subjectpositions his/her body near the mount in order to bring the targetlocation close to the magnetic field generator.

It is possible to incorporate the mount as part of a treatment chair,which allows the person to sit in the chair and adjust his/her body soas to place the magnetic field generator near the target area.Incorporating the mount into a chair makes positioning easier, since theperson's body may naturally rest in the correct position. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the mount is part ofa treatment chair.

The mount does not need to be in a fixed location on the chair. Thetarget location may change based on the treatment location. In addition,the size of people varies so that the treatment location may naturallyrest against a different part of the treatment chair. Therefore, it maybe advantageous to allow the mount position to be adjustable. In someembodiments of at least one aspect described above, the mount positionis adjustable to allow a person to move the magnetic field generatornear the target location.

Instead of repositioning the magnetic field generator depending ontarget location and the size of the person, it may be advantageous toinclude multiple magnetic field generators in the treatment chair,whereby a particular magnetic field generator or magnetic fieldgenerators may be selected to transmit magnetic field pulses, dependingon which magnetic field generator is closest to the target location ofthe person. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above,the device further comprises a second magnetic field generator as partof the treatment chair, whereby at least one of the magnetic fieldgenerators may be selected using a switch to transmit repetitivemagnetic stimulation to one or more target locations.

In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the firstmagnetic field generator and the second magnetic field generatortransmit repetitive magnetic stimulation to target locationsconcurrently. In some embodiments of at least one aspect describedabove, the first magnetic field generator and the second magnetic fieldgenerator transmit repetitive magnetic stimulation to target locationsnon-concurrently.

In addition to transmitting magnetic pulses to a target location in thespinal nerve of the person, improved spasticity reduction may beachieved by administering transcranial magnetic field pulses at afrequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of thebiological metric. This stimulation allows for treatment of anxietyassociated with the spasticity. By reducing the subject's anxiety,additional relaxation of the muscle is allowed. In some embodiments ofat least one aspect described above, the device further comprises asecond magnetic field generator and mount in order to transmitrepetitive transcranial magnetic field pulses at a frequency of abiological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the biologicalmetric. In some embodiments of at least one aspect described above, thefirst and second magnetic field generators transmit repetitive magneticstimulation transcranially and to the target location concurrently. Insome embodiments of at least one aspect described above, the first andsecond magnetic field generators transmit repetitive magneticstimulation transcranially and to the target location non-concurrently.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary device in which the spinal nerve (102)connects a location on the spine (105) to a treatment location in amuscle (101) in the subject's right leg. The magnetic field generator isa coil (104) in a handheld mount (106) that is placed so that the coilis above a target location (103) that includes a portion of the spinalnerve near the nerve root. Although this figure shows a handheld mount,the mount could also be affixed to a stationary bracket or othermechanism in order to prevent the coil from shifting away from thetarget location.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a target location in which the spinal nerve(205) connects a location on the spine (201) to a treatment location ina muscle (206). The magnetic field generator is a coil (203) that isplaced over the target location (204), which is located near the nerveroot (202) of the spinal nerve where a connection is made to the spine.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary flowchart for one aspect of the methoddescribed herein, where a subject experiences spasticity (301) in aportion of the body. The location where the spasticity occurs isregistered as the treatment location (302). One or more spinal nervesconnect the treatment location to the spine. These may be determinedanatomically using existing references (303). Once a spinal nerve isidentified as connecting the spine to the treatment location, the rootof the spinal nerve is found adjacent to the spine ipsilateral to thetreatment location (304). The target location is registered to a portionof the spinal nerve about 1 inch to 4 inches from the nerve root (305).Repetitive magnetic pulses (rMS) are administered to the target location(306) in order to enhance communication in the spinal nerve and relaxthe muscle.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary device in which the magnetic field generatoris a figure-8 magnetic coil (403) that is contained inside a strap(402), which encircles the torso of the subject. This strap isconfigured so that the magnetic pulses generated by the coil aredirected to the target location (401). A cable (404) connects the coilwith a power module (405), which controls the generation of the currentpulses required to create the magnetic field pulses in the coil. Thestrap is shown on the subject's lower waist. However, in someembodiments the strap can be raised or lowered in order to cover othertarget areas. Also, the coil location on the strap may be shifted sothat the coil rests either a greater or lesser distance from the spine,or on the opposite side of the spine.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary device in which the magnetic field generatoris a figure-8 magnetic coil (503) that is contained as part of a vest(501), which is worn by the subject. The vest is configured so that themagnetic pulses generated by the coil are directed to the targetlocation (502). A cable (504) connects the coil with a power module(505), which controls the generation of the current pulses required tocreate the magnetic field pulses. This shows the coil over a targetlocation situated on the subject's waist. However, in some embodimentsthe position of the coil could be changed, either using a vest with apocket in a different location, or by allowing the user or caregiver toadjust the coil position using Velcro or some other mechanism to securethe device in place.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary device in which the spinal nerve (608)connects a location on the spine to a treatment location in a muscle(609) in the subject's right leg. A coil (605) in a handheld mount (607)is placed so that the coil is above a target location (606) thatincludes a portion of the spinal nerve near the nerve root. Also shownis a second coil (602) in a handheld mount (601) that deliverstranscranial magnetic stimulation to the brain of the subject. Thisstimulation enhances communication in the pyramidal neuron (603) thatconnects to the spinal cord (604).

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary device in which 2 coils are used to administermagnetic pulses to 2 different treatment areas during the same treatmentsession. A treatment area in the thigh (706) is connected to the spine(701) through a spinal nerve (705). The coil (702) in a mount (704) ispositioned so that magnetic field pulses are delivered to the targetarea (703). A second treatment area in the arm (707) is connected to adifferent area of the spine through a spinal nerve (708). The secondcoil in a mount (710) is positioned so that magnetic field pulses aredelivered to the second target area (709). This figure shows two coils.However, in some embodiments more than two coils could be used tostimulate more than two target areas.

Since 31 pairs of spinal nerves exist in a person, and because magneticpulses affect a fairly wide area, when a magnetic field generator ispositioned to transmit magnetic field pulses to one target area of onespinal nerve, other spinal nerves could also be affected. In someembodiments, a single spinal nerve is affected. In some embodiments, twospinal nerves are affected. In some embodiments, three spinal nerves areaffected. In some embodiments, more than three spinal nerves areaffected. Affecting multiple spinal nerves with a single magnetic fieldgenerator allows the option of treatment of multiple target areas with asingle magnetic field generator.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary device in which fourteen figure-8 coils (802)are incorporated into the back of a treatment chair (801). The coils arearranged on either side of the midline of the chair. The coils areconnected via cables (807) to a switch (806) that connects to the powermodule (804) by a cable (805). This configuration allows selectiveactivation of one or more coils to treat one or more target areas oneither side of the spine.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of “including,but not limited to.” Words using the singular or plural number alsoinclude the plural or singular number respectively. Additionally, thewords “herein,” “hereunder,” “above,” “below,” and words of similarimport refer to this application as a whole and not to any particularportions of this application. When the word “or” is used in reference toa list of two or more items, that word covers all of the followinginterpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of theitems in the list and any combination of the items in the list.

The above descriptions of illustrated embodiments of the system,methods, or devices are not intended to be exhaustive or to be limitedto the precise form disclosed. While specific embodiments of, andexamples for, the system, methods, or devices are described herein forillustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possiblewithin the scope of the system, methods, or devices, as those skilled inthe relevant art will recognize. The teachings of the system, methods,or devices provided herein can be applied to other processing systems,methods, or devices, not only for the systems, methods, or devicesdescribed.

The elements and acts of the various embodiments described can becombined to provide further embodiments. These and other changes can bemade to the system in light of the above detailed description.

In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not beconstrued to limit the system, methods, or devices to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should beconstrued to include all processing systems that operate under theclaims. Accordingly, the system, methods, and devices are not limited bythe disclosure, but instead the scopes of the system, methods, ordevices are to be determined entirely by the claims.

While certain aspects of the system, methods, or devices are presentedbelow in certain claim fauns, the inventor contemplates the variousaspects of the system, methods, or devices in any number of claim forms.Accordingly, the inventors reserve the right to add additional claimsafter filing the application to pursue such additional claim forms forother aspects of the system, methods, or devices.

EMBODIMENTS

Specific embodiments of the invention include the following:

-   1. A method of treating spasticity in a subject comprising:    -   a. determining a treatment location in the body of the subject        that is or has been a source of spasticity for the subject;    -   b. determining a target location on or near at least one spinal        nerve that connects the treatment location to the spine        ipsilateral to the treatment location; and    -   c. administering repetitive magnetic field pulses to the target        location.-   2. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein the magnetic pulse frequency    is fixed at or near a target frequency.-   3. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein the magnetic pulse frequency    hops periodically about an average target frequency.-   4. The method of Embodiment 3 wherein the magnetic pulse frequency    hops periodically to random values within a range about an average    target frequency.-   5. The method of Embodiment 3 wherein the magnetic pulse frequency    hops periodically in a specific pattern about an average target    frequency.-   6. The method of Embodiment 3 wherein the magnetic pulse frequency    hops periodically between two values about an average target    frequency.-   7. The method of Embodiment 2 or 3 wherein the magnetic pulse target    frequency is from about 1 Hz to about 10 Hz.-   8. The method of Embodiment 2 or 3 wherein the magnetic pulse target    frequency is from about 10 Hz to about 30 Hz.-   9. The method of Embodiment 2 or 3 wherein the repetitive magnetic    pulses are part of a pulse train with a train duration that is about    4 seconds to about 30 seconds and is alternately active and inactive    as part of a duty cycle with a period of about 30 seconds to about    80 seconds.-   10. The method of Embodiment 2 or 3 wherein the repetitive magnetic    pulses are part of a pulse train with a train duration that is about    30 seconds to about 200 seconds and is alternately active and    inactive as part of a duty cycle with a period of about 40 seconds    to about 300 seconds.-   11. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein treatment is administered for    a treatment duration that is about 0 minutes to about 10 minutes.-   12. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein treatment is administered for    a treatment duration that is about 10 minutes to about 30 minutes.-   13. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein the target location is from    about ½ inch to about 2 inches from the spine.-   14. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein the target location is from    about 2 inches to about 4 inches from the spine.-   15. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein the strength of the magnetic    field pulses is from about 10 Gauss to about 4 Tesla.-   16. The method of Embodiment 15 wherein the strength of the magnetic    field pulses is adjusted based on the tolerance of the subject.-   17. The method of Embodiment 1 wherein the spasticity is caused by    at least one of multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury,    cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, strenuous exercise, muscle    recovery, a sports injury, a traumatic injury, post-operative side    effect, sympathetic nervous system response to an event, or a    neuromuscular injury.-   18. The method of Embodiment 1, further comprising administering    repetitive transcranial magnetic field pulses at a frequency of a    biological metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the biological    metric.-   19. The method of Embodiment 18 wherein repetitive magnetic pulses    are administered transcranially and to the target location    concurrently.-   20. The method of Embodiment 18 wherein repetitive magnetic pulses    are administered transcranially and to the target location    non-concurrently.-   21. A device to treat spasticity in a person comprising:    -   a. an magnetic field generator; and    -   b. a power source configured to energize the magnetic field        generator in order to generate a repetitive pulsed magnetic        field outside a subject, or a connector for connecting to a        power source; and    -   c. a mount that is configured to hold the magnetic field        generator in place;    -   wherein the magnetic field generator is configured to transmit        repetitive magnetic field pulses such that the magnetic field        induces an electric current or voltage potential in a target        location on or near the spinal nerve that connects a spasticity        treatment location to the spine.-   22. The device of Embodiment 21, wherein the target location is at a    distance of about ½ inch to about 4 inches from the spine.-   23. The device of Embodiment 21, wherein the mount is attached to    the body so that the magnetic field generator may be worn by the    subject.-   24. The device of Embodiment 21, wherein the mount is held    stationary so that the subject positions his/her body near the mount    in order to bring the target location close to the magnetic field    generator.-   25. The device of Embodiment 24 wherein the mount is part of a    treatment chair.-   26. The device of Embodiment 25 wherein the mount position is    adjustable to allow a person to move the magnetic field generator    near the target location.-   27. The device of Embodiment 25 further comprising a second magnetic    field generator as part of the treatment chair, whereby at least one    of the magnetic field generators may be selected using a switch to    transmit repetitive magnetic stimulation to one or more target    locations.-   28. The device of Embodiment 27 wherein the first magnetic field    generator and the second magnetic field generator transmit    repetitive magnetic stimulation to target locations concurrently.-   29. The device of Embodiment 27 wherein the first magnetic field    generator and the second magnetic field generator transmit    repetitive magnetic stimulation to target locations    non-concurrently.-   30. The device of Embodiment 25 further comprising a second magnetic    field generator and mount in order to transmit repetitive    transcranial magnetic field pulses at a frequency of a biological    metric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the biological metric.-   31. The device of Embodiment 30 wherein the first and second    magnetic field generators transmit repetitive magnetic stimulation    transcranially and to the target location concurrently.-   32. The device of Embodiment 30 wherein the first and second    magnetic field generators transmit repetitive magnetic stimulation    transcranially and to the target location non-concurrently.-   33. The device of Embodiment 21 wherein the magnetic field generator    is a coil.

While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and describedherein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that suchembodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations,changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the artwithout departing from the invention. It should be understood thatvarious alternatives to the embodiments of the invention describedherein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended thatthe following claims define the scope of the invention and that methodsand structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents becovered thereby.

EXAMPLES

The invention is described in greater detail by the followingnon-limiting examples.

Example 1

A 33-year-old female suffered a right cerebrovascular accident 3 yearsprior to treatment. She had complete rigidity in her left arm into thedigits. She presented with positive Babinski sign and requiredassistance to walk. The C4 spinal nerve was identified as connecting thespine to the muscles in her arm. Treatment was administeredapproximately one inch from the spine ipsilateral to the treatmentlocation. Treatment was also administered to the spinal nerve at theleft elbow. rMS was administered alternating between treatment locationsat 3000 Gauss pulse intensity, 3 Hz pulse frequency, with a pulse trainduration of 200 seconds. Following 1 month of stimulation, she had 40%reduction in arm spasticity and recovery of fine motor movement in herhand.

Example 2

A 42-year-old male experienced intracerebral hemorrhage approximately 14months prior to magnetic stimulation, resulting in right hemiplegia,loss of sensation, and motor weakness in the right upper and lowerextremities and tremor in the right appendages. The C5 spinal nerve wasidentified as connecting the spine to the muscles of the rightappendages. The L4 spinal nerve was identified as connecting the spineto the muscles of the right lower extremities.

Treatment was administered approximately one inch from the spineipsilateral to the treatment location, alternating between the twospinal nerves. Treatment was also administered to the C5 spinal nerve atthe right elbow, and to the L4 spinal nerve at the knee and calf. rMSwas administered alternately between treatment locations at 8,500 Gausspulse intensity, 3 Hz pulse frequency, with a pulse train duration of 40seconds and a duty cycle period of 44 seconds.

Following two weeks of stimulation, tremors in the right appendagesdecreased significantly, with improved fine motor movement in thedigits. Sensation, strength, and control improved significantly in theupper and lower limbs.

Example 3

A 30-year-old male sustained traumatic brain injury due to a bulletthrough the skull. He experienced left side paralysis, pain in his leftshoulder and severe spasticity in his left arm, and absent muscle tonein his left leg. He was Babinski positive, with high muscle tone in thesphincter, and was wheelchair bound. The C4 spinal nerve was identifiedas connecting the spine to the muscles of the left ann.

Treatment was administered approximately one inch from the spineipsilateral to the treatment location. In addition, treatment wasadministered to the spinal nerve near the left elbow. The spinal nerveL3 and Si were identified as connecting the spine to the muscles of theleft leg. Treatment was administered approximately one inch from thespine ipsilateral to the treatment location. In addition, treatment wasadministered to the spinal nerve near the pubococcygeus muscle and leftknee. rMS was administered alternately to different locations at 8,000Gauss pulse intensity, 3 Hz pulse frequency, with a single pulse trainduration of 200 seconds per location.

Following six months of stimulation, the person could support his ownweight and walk with cane assistance. Reduction in spasticity was notedin the left arm, with similar reduction in spasticity in the sphincter,allowing the person to control urinary flow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of treating spasticity in a subjectcomprising: a. determining a treatment location in the body of thesubject that is or has been a source of spasticity for the subject; b.determining a target location on or near at least one spinal nerve thatconnects the treatment location to the spine ipsilateral to thetreatment location; and c. administering repetitive magnetic fieldpulses to the target location.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein themagnetic pulse frequency is fixed at or near a target frequency.
 3. Themethod of claim 1 wherein the magnetic pulse frequency hops periodicallyabout an average target frequency.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein themagnetic pulse frequency hops periodically to random values within arange about an average target frequency.
 5. The method of claim 3wherein the magnetic pulse frequency hops periodically in a specificpattern about an average target frequency.
 6. The method of claim 3wherein the magnetic pulse frequency hops periodically between twovalues about an average target frequency.
 7. The method of claim 2 or 3wherein the magnetic pulse target frequency is from about 1 Hz to about10 Hz.
 8. The method of claim 2 or 3 wherein the magnetic pulse targetfrequency is from about 10 Hz to about 30 Hz.
 9. The method of claim 2or 3 wherein the repetitive magnetic pulses are part of a pulse trainwith a train duration that is about 4 seconds to about 30 seconds and isalternately active and inactive as part of a duty cycle with a period ofabout 30 seconds to about 80 seconds.
 10. The method of claim 2 or 3wherein the repetitive magnetic pulses are part of a pulse train with atrain duration that is about 30 seconds to about 200 seconds and isalternately active and inactive as part of a duty cycle with a period ofabout 40 seconds to about 300 seconds.
 11. The method of claim 1 whereintreatment is administered for a treatment duration that is about 0minutes to about 10 minutes.
 12. The method of claim 1 wherein treatmentis administered for a treatment duration that is about 10 minutes toabout 30 minutes.
 13. The method of claim 1 wherein the target locationis from about ½ inch to about 2 inches from the spine.
 14. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the target location is from about 2 inches to about 4inches from the spine.
 15. The method of claim 1 wherein the strength ofthe magnetic field pulses is from about 10 Gauss to about 4 Tesla. 16.The method of claim 15 wherein the strength of the magnetic field pulsesis adjusted based on the tolerance of the subject.
 17. The method ofclaim 1 wherein the spasticity is caused by at least one of multiplesclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cordinjury, strenuous exercise, muscle recovery, a sports injury, atraumatic injury, post-operative side effect, sympathetic nervous systemresponse to an event, or a neuromuscular injury.
 18. The method of claim1, further comprising administering repetitive transcranial magneticfield pulses at a frequency of a biological metric, or a harmonic orsub-harmonic of the biological metric.
 19. The method of claim 18wherein repetitive magnetic pulses are administered transcranially andto the target location concurrently.
 20. The method of claim 18 whereinrepetitive magnetic pulses are administered transcranially and to thetarget location non-concurrently.
 21. A device to treat spasticity in asubject comprising: a. a magnetic field generator; and b. a power sourceconfigured to energize the magnetic field generator in order to generatea repetitive pulsed magnetic field outside a subject; and c. a mountthat is configured to hold the magnetic field generator in place;wherein the magnetic field generator is configured to transmitrepetitive magnetic field pulses such that the magnetic field induces anelectric current or voltage potential in a target location on or nearthe spinal nerve that connects a spasticity treatment location to thespine.
 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the target location is at adistance of about ½ inch to about 4 inches from the spine.
 23. Thedevice of claim 21, wherein the mount is attached to the body so thatthe magnetic field generator may be worn by the subject.
 24. The deviceof claim 21, wherein the mount is held stationary so that the subjectpositions his/her body near the mount in order to bring the targetlocation close to the magnetic field generator.
 25. The device of claim24 wherein the mount is part of a treatment chair.
 26. The device ofclaim 25 wherein the mount position is adjustable to allow a person tomove the magnetic field generator near the target location.
 27. Thedevice of claim 25 further comprising a second magnetic field generatoras part of the treatment chair, whereby at least one of the magneticfield generators may be selected using a switch to transmit repetitivemagnetic stimulation to one or more target locations.
 28. The device ofclaim 27 wherein the first magnetic field generator and the secondmagnetic field generator transmit repetitive magnetic stimulation totarget locations concurrently.
 29. The device of claim 27 wherein thefirst magnetic field generator and the second magnetic field generatortransmit repetitive magnetic stimulation to target locationsnon-concurrently.
 30. The device of claim 25 further comprising a secondmagnetic field generator and mount in order to transmit repetitivetranscranial magnetic field pulses at a frequency of a biologicalmetric, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the biological metric.
 31. Thedevice of claim 30 wherein the first and second magnetic fieldgenerators transmit repetitive magnetic stimulation transcranially andto the target location concurrently.
 32. The device of claim 30 whereinthe first and second magnetic field generators transmit repetitivemagnetic stimulation transcranially and to the target locationnon-concurrently.
 33. The device of claim 21 wherein the magnetic fieldgenerator is a coil.